Kotoko wary as Zesco credentials underlined by recent stats

On Wednesday, Asante Kotoko will welcome Zambia’s Zesco United to the Baba Yara Stadium for their second group game of the 2019 CAF Confederation Cup.

The Porcupine Warriors didn’t get their campaign off to a flyer as they were beaten 1-0 in Sudan by Al Hilal Omdurman. Which means tomorrow’s game is a must-win and anything short of victory will harm Kotoko’s chances of qualifying to the knockout stages.

However, CK Akonnor’s men must tread cautiously as their opponents will surely offer a stern test, taking into consideration their recent performances. The Zambians are in superb form, churning out impressive statistics.

Zesco’s last visit to Ghana saw them crash out of the 2014 CAF Confederation Cup following a 2-0 defeat to Medeama in Sekondi.

But they have improved tremendously in recent years. Since 2016, the Zegalacticos have not tasted defeat in West Africa.

They have played five matches – two against Ivorian giants Asec Mimosas, Stade Malien of Mali, Niger’s AS SONIDEP and Nigerian giants Enugu Rangers.

1-3 vs. Stade Malien – CAF CL

1-1 vs. ASEC Mimosas – CAF CL

1-2 vs. ASEC Mimosas – CAF CL

1-2 vs. AS SONIDEP – CAF CL

2-2 vs. Enugu Rangers – CAF CC

Wins – 3
Draws – 2

Goals for – 10

Goals Against – 6

Also, another stat that should be a worry for Kotoko is that Zesco are unbeaten in their last five games in all competitions this season.

3-1 vs. Kaizer Chiefs – CAF CC

1-2 vs. Kaizer Chiefs – CAF CC

0-1 vs. Green Buffaloes – Zambian league

2-0 vs. Nkana FC – CAF CC

2-0 vs. Nakambala Leopards – Zambian league

Goals for – 10

Goals Against – 2

With the numbers highlighted above, Zesco will fancy their chances but Kotoko must make the most of playing in front of an expected packed stadium.